In a landmark 2015 study, the National Science Foundation found that American women earn 50 percent of science and engineering degrees yet hold just 28 percent of jobs in these fields. In conservation science, women hold only 22 percent of jobs. Audubon Canyon Ranch (ACR) is proud to be bucking the national trend: Women hold eight of twelve conservation science positions at our organization.
ACR’s philosophy of “Conservation in Action” means that we are committed to catalyzing in others the desire to understand and care for the land. ACR believes that leveling the playing field means not only inspiring and equipping young women to access and enjoy natural lands, but also supporting them to cultivate a sense of belonging to and curiosity about the natural world, and a desire to engage with stewarding the wild. ACR has a highly competent and deeply committed team of female biologists, ecologists, writers, and artists who see this as both a privilege and a responsibility - mentoring young women in conservation science, supporting their educational and professional goals.
This 5-day, 4-night residential program is based out of ACR's Martin Griffin Preserve on Bolinas Lagoon near Stinson Beach and includes day trips to some of ACR's other preserves and local protected lands. While learning and working together, participants explore topics including natural history, conservation, leadership, outdoor skills, biological illustration, research design and ethics, nature writing, equity in science, and models of female leadership.
Funding provided by foundations and donors allows ACR to offer this program free-of-charge.
Questions? Contact Program Staff at CSI@egret.org or 415-868-9244 extension 116 or 310.